Equestrian camping near Carlsbad, New Mexico offers limited options in a desert environment where daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in summer months. The region sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with terrain characterized by rocky desert landscapes and limited natural shade. Camping facilities in this area are primarily concentrated along the National Parks Highway corridor, with most sites requiring advance preparation for the arid conditions.
What to do
Visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Located about 30 minutes from Carlsbad RV Park & Campground, this natural wonder makes a perfect day trip. "Let's start with the fact that there are few actually camping areas close to Carlsbad Caverns or Guadalupe National Park. Assuming travelers are coming to Carlsbad to see these great places, the location becomes a major player," notes camper Celina M.
Explore Guadalupe Mountains: For those seeking backcountry horse trails, Dog Canyon Campground offers access to remote riding terrain. "Due to the elevation, this campground is cooler and has more shelter than the Pine Springs campground. Dog Canyon has excellent trail access with options of one-day or shorter day hikes," according to GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Check out Sitting Bull Falls: This spring-fed waterfall makes a worthwhile detour when camping in the region. "About 25 miles away is Sitting Bull Falls, a spring-fed waterfall that is a nice side trip," mentions Lee D. This natural oasis provides a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert environment.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: At Carlsbad KOA, campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "We stayed for 5 days in April 2022. They had just remodeled their bathrooms. Great job. 2 new toilets and 4 new showers (1 handicap) in mens and ladies restrooms. Clean and new. Hot water for days. And did I mention clean," shares Wayne F.
Secure camping environments: Security features provide peace of mind for campers with valuable equipment. "The park has gated access and we felt very safe during our stay," reports Celina M. Similarly, another camper notes, "Appreciated the carded gate access after hours for added security."
Cooler temperatures at higher elevations: The mountain campgrounds offer relief from summer heat. Charles A. explains that at Pine Top Wilderness Campground, "You must carry your own water in. These are primitive desert backpacking sites. Since it is the first camp at the end of a fairly tough hike, it is often full. You must get a permit from the rangers to camp here."
What you should know
Reservations strongly recommended: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We've stayed here twice now in the past year, and both times the service and the sites were great. There aren't a whole lot of other options close to the Caverns," advises Jeff T.
Gas up before arrival: The remote location requires advance planning. "This place is REMOTE! Like 1.5 hours away from any gas station remote. First and foremost make sure you fill up before you get off that highway. Whites City by Carlsbad is not too far. If you're coming that direction fill up before you go out there," warns Kurtis S.
Limited shade at many sites: The desert environment means exposure to sun throughout the day. "It looks like they've planted lots of trees and that in a few years there will be ample shade everywhere. Having said that—there is a newer part of the park that is all gravel with no trees and no shade," explains Amy & Stu B.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Facilities can make family trips more comfortable. "If you haven't yet discovered the beauty of the chihuahuan desert, the Carlsbad KOA is a great place to hang your hat while you explore. There is a pool, laundry, all the amenities you need if you are RVing, a game room and food on site," recommends Jennie R.
Consider cabin options for mixed outdoor experiences: Cabins provide a middle ground for families. "I often stay in camping cabins at KOA's while on road trips with my children. We like having a bed to spread our sleeping bags out on sometimes, access to AC after a hot day of exploration and the kids like a chance to 'plug in' while we are unplugged," shares Jennie R.
Visit Living Desert State Park: This nearby attraction offers child-friendly exploration. "If you are in this area, visit the Living Desert State Park and Zoo and of course Carlsbad Caverns - stay and watch the bats fly out in the evening," suggests a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Carlsbad RV Park & Campground, certain areas offer more comfort. "This place makes a good basecamp for Carlsbad Caverns NO, Guadalupe Mountains NP and more. Road noise near front can be a bit annoying, but the front sites seem bigger and nicer, so worth the trade-off," advises Ari A.
RV size limitations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "I cannot imagine that these sites will accommodate rigs over 25'. Sites: RV-A, and RV-D are on the ends. These are the best sites. RV-A door faces horse trailer parking area. No horse trailers during our stay. RV-D is the best site if you can park your RV nose first," explains Roger W.
Check for level sites: Terrain can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The pad surface is gravel. Sites are level," notes one reviewer, while Bill T. confirms, "People are great, typical gravel southwestern park. Level, no firepits though."
